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Accommodating international customers

Having a successful international company means being accessible to different clients around the world. With each country there are different customs and means of connection. To become a truly successful international company, it is important to have these available for your customers.

When travelling it’s always important to make sure your credit cards will work where you are going. It is not only the responsibility of your clients to check, but the responsibility of travel companies to be able to accept a wide variety of payments. Having easily accessible booking options is an attractive feature for international clients. By offering the option of online payments through credit cards and debit, plus the option of purchasing over the phone, accommodates those who do not have access to the internet, or are unable to call your company to make bookings. To be a successful international company able to accommodate a wide variety of customers, it is important to offer different forms of payment.

Each culture and country has its own norms and traditions. It is extremely important to recognize and accept these sometimes uncommon norms in order to accommodate international customers. One of the easiest ways to start this is by having staff members who are fluent in several different languages. The Russian airline Aeroflot is accessible by 9 languages on their website. By offering this service to customers and clients, your company can expand their clientele and make them feel more comfortable traveling with you. Knowing you can easily speak with the staff makes customers feel not only more welcomed and understood, but also able to meet their needs.

Most companies in the travel industry offer meals to their travellers during longer trips. Airlines offer a selection prior to departing for their travellers to choose from, while train companies, such as Via Rail, offer a selection for their guest to choose from during their trip. Several airlines, including Air Canada and U.S. Airways, have also started offering specialty meals for their clients. No matter which form of travel your company specializes in, it’s important to offer meal selections for all sorts of dietary needs. There are vegetarians, vegans, those who eat gluten free meals, and there are religions that view some animals, like cows, as religious.

When it comes to advertising your company, it is important to be present over various mediums. Not all potential clients will have televisions, radios or check their emails. To ensure you reach all of your potential clients, it’s important to spread your marketing through a variety of channels. Having television commercials, radio commercials, notices through the mail, and a website ensures maximum potential to reach an audience.

Taking the time to provide these services to your current and future clients will make your business grow and ensure your customers enjoy their experience. Opening your business to include what is considered the norm in other countries across the world will make your company stand out in the travel industry. A large portion of public relations is listening to the clients’ needs and responding accordingly. One of the most important ways to do this is through accessibility, understanding of customs and providing a comfortable service to your clientele.